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Thursday, August 5, 2010

Luxury on a Budget

Do the words "luxury" and "budget" seam diametrically opposed to each other? If you equate luxury with a high price tag or you can only be surrounded by objects with designer labels, then this article is not for you. If you define luxury as a lifestyle that perfectly blends comfort, glamor, and excitement, then you have come to the right place. The four keys to creating a luxurious environment without blowing your budget are Function, Layering, Smart Shopping, and and Careful Planning.Function is the most important element because it builds the foundation for how you can maximize the comfort and ease of using your space. A cluttered and disorganized home is NEVER glamorous. Make sure there is a place for every thing, and that your storage systems are attractive and complement your overall design scheme. The internet is a great resource to compare storage products and also to find informative product reviews. If an item scores high in QUALITY and VALUE, then you can feel confident in your purchase.Layering is the second key and this involves paint, fabrics, lighting, and accessories. Paint is the easiest and most economical way to add drama to your space. You can also give found furniture a whole new life with a high gloss paint or interesting treatment. Fabrics are essential to the layering process and can add color, texture, pattern, and sheen to your design. Many fabric stores have sale tables where you can find sumptuous and elegant materials at a fraction of the cost. Lighting is an element that is often overlooked. You can create a special ambiance by mixing mood and task lighting and installing dimmers. Candles are also a cheap and easy way to add romance and atmosphere. Controlling the mood of your environment can make you feel like master of your domain.